Slow Cooker Sloppy Joe Sliders
Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes are a crowd-pleaser for any gathering! This easy recipe combines ground chuck with ketchup, tomato sauce, peppers, and spices, creating a rich, flavorful filling that's perfect for sliders.
Slow Cooker Sloppy Joe Sliders
Slow Cooker Sloppy Joes are a classic, comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion where you want to serve something easy, hearty, and delicious.
Whether you’re hosting a casual family gathering, a game day party, or a simple weeknight dinner, these sloppy joes are a guaranteed hit.
They are easy to customize with your favorite toppings or add extra heat for those who like a bit of spice.
Ingredients
Ground Chuck - Choose a higher fat content for more flavor, but drain the excess fat to keep it from being too greasy. A leaner blend works if you prefer a lighter option.
Green Bell Pepper - If you prefer some spice, substitute with a jalapeno.
Ketchup - Use your favorite brand.
Tomato Sauce - Choose a low-sodium option if you're watching your salt intake.
Dried Minced Onion - You can substitute with fresh onions for a stronger flavor.
Prepared Mustard - Adds a tangy kick. Dijon or yellow mustard works well; adjust based on your preference.
Brown Sugar - Adjust the amount to suit your taste.
Worcestershire Sauce
Apple Cider Vinegar - White vinegar can work, but apple cider offers a milder, sweeter touch.
Garlic Powder - An easy way to add garlic flavor. Fresh minced garlic can be used if you prefer.
Chili Powder - Provides a mild heat. Adjust the amount based on your heat tolerance.
Salt and Black Pepper
Hawaiian Rolls - You can use regular slider buns if you prefer.
How to make
Start by greasing the slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray.
If your ground beef isn't browned already, brown and crumble the ground chuck in a skillet, then add to the slow cooker along with all the remaining ingredients except the rolls.
Cook on Low for 3-4 hours until thickened. Make sure to stir about halfway through cooking.
Add the bottom of the rolls to a 9x13 baking dish.
Spread the mixture thickly on the bottom rolls.
Sandwich with the tops. Cut apart and serve.
You can also allow each person to fill their own roll with the sloppy joe mix.
Enjoy!
Tips
Customize the Heat: Adjust the chili powder and add hot sauce or diced jalapeños if you like it spicy!
Rolls: Hawaiian rolls add a great sweet contrast to the filling. For a less sweet option, use regular slider buns or even toasted brioche buns.
Make Ahead and Reheat: These sloppy joes are great for making ahead. Store in the fridge and reheat in the oven covered with foil to keep the buns soft.
Serve with Toppings: Offer sliced cheese, pickles, or coleslaw as toppings.
Don’t Overcook: Check the mixture halfway through cooking to ensure it’s not getting too thick. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to maintain a good consistency.
Leftovers
You can store the mix in the fridge in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days. Store the rolls separately to keep them from getting soggy.
When ready to eat, reheat the sloppy joe mixture in a saucepan over medium heat until warmed through.
For reheating the sliders as a whole, place them in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and bake at 350°F for 20-30 minutes until heated.
Alternatively, microwave individual portions for a quicker option.
What to serve it with
Coleslaw: A tangy, creamy coleslaw makes a great side dish.
Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy and slightly sweet, they are another side that pairs well with sloppy joe sliders.
Potato Salad: A classic side dish for sloppy joe sliders.
Baked Beans: Savory and slightly sweet, baked beans pair well with the flavors of sloppy joes.
Pickles: Great for either adding to the sliders, on top of the sloppy joes, or add a spear on the side.
Corn on the Cob: Grilled or boiled, it’s a great and simple side.
Garden Salad: You can't go wrong with a fresh salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette.
Potato Wedges: Seasoned and crispy from the air fryer, they offer a hearty side.
F.A.Q.'s
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sloppy joe mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat it in a slow cooker or on the stovetop before serving.
Can I freeze the sloppy joe mixture?
Yes, the sloppy joe mixture freezes well. Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat before serving.
How do I prevent the buns from getting soggy?
Serve the sloppy joe mixture separately and let guests assemble their sliders. If assembling ahead, add a layer of cheese or lettuce on the bottom bun to create a barrier.
Slow Cooker Sloppy Joe Sliders
Ingredients
- 4 pounds ground chuck browned, crumbled, and drained
- 1 green bell pepper seeded and diced
- 3 cups ketchup
- 29 ounces tomato sauce (1) 29 ounce can
- ½ cup dried minced onion
- ¼ cup prepared mustard
- 4 Tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 Tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 2 Tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 24 Hawaiian rolls, sliced in half through the height to make slider buns (2) 12 count bags
Instructions
- Prepare the slow cooker with nonstick cooking spray.
- Place all of the ingredients EXCEPT the slider buns into the slow cooker and stir to combine.
- Cover and cook on low for 3 to 4 hours, stirring halfway.
- Place the bottom of the rolls into a 9x13 dish. Add a thick layer of the sloppy joe mix. Place the top of the buns over the sauce.
- Cut apart and serve immediately or cover and refrigerate.
- To reheat: Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Tent the dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 to 30 minutes or until the meat is heated through. Cut apart and serve.
Notes
Please note that the nutritional content of this recipe will vary based on the specific ingredients used. For a detailed breakdown of the nutritional values, consider using a recipe nutrition calculator with the exact brands and measurements you've used.
